Flights from New York (NYC) to Philippines

Discover the Philippines

Discover the Philippines

Why visit the Philippines?
The Philippines welcomes you with tropical islands, friendly smiles, and a relaxed pace of life. You find Spanish-era towns, glittering city skylines, and some of Asia s most inviting beaches and reefs.
What to expect
From the busy streets of Manila to laid-back Cebu and island gateways beyond, each region offers its own rhythm. You can divide your time between heritage walks, island-hopping, and time in modern shopping and dining districts.
Plan your trip
Most international journeys start in Manila or Cebu, where you connect onwards to other islands. Both cities are natural bases for exploring the wider archipelago and the rest of Southeast Asia on the same trip.

Top experiences in the Philippines

Explore historic Intramuros in Manila

Walk cobbled streets, colonial walls, and restored houses in Manila s old walled city, a compact district rich in history and architecture.

Unwind on Cebu s nearby islands

Use Cebu as your base for boat trips to nearby islands with white-sand beaches, clear water, and relaxed coastal resorts.

Discover Manila s bayside promenade

Stroll along the bayside in Manila for skyline views, open-air spaces, and easy access to nearby museums and malls.

Snorkel and dive in Visayan waters

Head out from Cebu to renowned snorkelling and dive spots, where warm, clear water and diverse marine life await.

Enjoy city views from Cebu s hilltops

Travel up into the hills above Cebu City for cooler air, sweeping views, and café stops overlooking the urban skyline.

Visit museums and galleries in Manila

Spend a day in Manila s cultural quarter, where you can explore museums, galleries, and theatres close to the city centre.

Take a food-focused city tour

Join a guided food walk in Manila or Cebu to sample local flavours while learning how the cities have evolved over time.

Cruise around Manila Bay

End a day in the capital with a relaxed bay cruise, taking in the skyline and evening lights from the water.

Experience the Philippines way of life

Getting around
You typically arrive in Manila or Cebu, then continue by domestic flight or ferry to other islands. Within major cities, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and light rail in Manila help you move between business districts, shopping areas, and heritage sites.
Local life & culture
Life in the Philippines moves to a warm and sociable rhythm, from music-filled neighbourhoods to lively city plazas. You notice Spanish, American, and Asian influences in architecture, language, and daily routines across Manila, Cebu, and beyond.
Where to unwind
Green spaces, coastal promenades, and island resorts give you many ways to slow down. From bayside parks in Manila to hilltop lookouts and beach escapes from Cebu, you can alternate busy days in the city with quiet time by the sea.

A taste of the Philippines

National dishes & specialties
In Manila and Cebu you can try national favourites from hearty stews to grilled meats and seafood, each region adding its own twist. Coastal cities are especially known for fresh catches, while city centres offer classic comfort dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Large malls and mixed-use districts in Manila and Cebu bring together local eateries, international chains, and contemporary cafés. You can move easily from quick bites to relaxed family restaurants and stylish bistros in one compact area.
Signature & scenic dining
Bayside spots in Manila and hilltop or waterside venues in Cebu offer memorable settings for a meal. You might enjoy dinner with skyline views, sea breezes, or a table looking out over the surrounding islands.

Retail therapy in the Philippines

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Manila and Cebu are known for extensive malls that combine international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining. These lifestyle centres are comfortable places to shop, especially during the warmer hours of the day.
Markets & local crafts
Alongside the malls, you find neighbourhood markets and speciality shops where handmade crafts and regional products are sold. Manila and Cebu, as well as nearby provincial towns, are good places to look for textiles, accessories, and home décor.
Evening retail scene
After dark, many malls in Manila and Cebu stay open into the evening, with bright storefronts and busy food courts. In some districts, pop-up stalls and street vendors add to the lively night-time shopping atmosphere.

Best time to visit the Philippines

Dry peak season (peak season): From December to May, days are generally sunny and warm, with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). This is a popular time for beach holidays and island-hopping.
Rainy shoulder season (shoulder season): June to early October brings more frequent showers and occasional storms, with temperatures around 26–31°C (79–88°F). Short bursts of rain are common, but there are still many clear periods.
Transition months (low season): Late October and November sit between the wetter and drier periods, with temperatures around 26–30°C (79–86°F). Visitor numbers are lower, and you may find a calmer atmosphere at major resorts.

Frequently Asked Questions